Former leading New Zealand publisher and bookseller, and widely experienced judge of both the Commonwealth Writers Prize and the Montana New Zealand Book Awards, talks about what he is currently reading, what impresses him and what doesn't, along with chat about the international English language book scene, and links to sites of interest to booklovers.

Tuesday, December 04, 2012

CONVERTED HOUSES - New Zealand architecture recycled

Photography Daniel Allen, text Lucinda DiackPenguin Books - $65

Remodelling a disused grain store, dilapidated railway station, school dental clinic or abandoned factory into a comfortable living environment requires dedication, vision and hard work - characteristics shared by the owners of these unique homes. From the unlikeliest of beginnings, character-filled spaces have emerged that imbue their owners' daily lives with a unique sense of history. Converted Houses showcases clever examples of New Zealand's early architecture being recycled for modern day living. Industrial and farming buildings, halls, chapels, community landmarks and even a cool store are among the clever conversions featured within this inspiring collection of innovative homes.A large, luscious and inspiring book for the coffee table in the city or at the bach.

About the author and photographerLucinda Diack has spent the last five years indulging a passion for architecture, interiors, craft and gardens by writing about people and their homes. After four years as the editor of the home and lifestyle magazine homestyle, she now spends her days working as a communication manager within the architectural sector in Christchurch. Her nights and weekends she can be found nestled in her home in Canterbury, an inspiring slice of paradise in which to craft stories of wonderful people and their inspiring homes. Converted Houses is her first book. Daniel Allen got his first camera at the age of seven, enrolled in a camera club at 10, built his first dark room at 11 and has been passionate about photography ever since. Originally from London, Daniel moved to New Zealand in 2003 and quickly established himself as one of New Zealand's leading lifestyle photographers. Based in Nelson, he covers New Zealand and the South Pacific for a diverse range of advertising, editorial and publishing clients. When not shooting Daniel can be found reading Postman Pat to one of his three daughters, cooking hot Thai food or simply enjoying the Nelson sunshine.